YORKTON - One of Canada’s premier wheelchair rugby players has scored his last point, at least in international play.
Four-time Paralympian Zak Madell, who has been “one of Canada’s most dynamic and influential wheelchair rugby athletes,’ according to a wheelchairrugby.ca article, has recently announced his retirement from international competition.
“Over a 13-year career, Madell became a pillar of the Canadian national team, known not only for his explosive speed and scoring power but also for the leadership and selflessness he brought to the court,” continued the article.
So how difficult a decision was it for the Edmonton-born Madell.
“It was time,” he told Yorkton This Week. “I had a lot of fun – no regrets playing as long as I did.
“But, I’m so excited to see what life has in store for me.”
Madell said he had thoughts of retirement earlier but things just kept pushing the ultimate decision forward including COVID putting a wrinkle into planned events.
Then there were offers to play in Japan and Australia, opportunities Madell said were sort of once in a lifetime so he could not really say no.
Looking back those opportunities, along with another to play stateside were great not just for the quality of wheelchair rugby, offered Madell.
“I had a blast,” he reported, adding he made friendships which will last far into his retirement.
Did he have a favourite among the international sojourns?
“Japan,” said Madell. “They’re still trying to get me to go back there and play.”
Madell was introduced to wheelchair rugby in 2011 at a prospect camp, where he was noticed by the sport’s founder, Duncan Campbell.
At just 18 years old, Madell made his Paralympic debut and helped lead Canada to a silver medal.
Madell said the silver medal in 2012 in London, while earned so early in his career, remains a career highlight now as he looks back over his accomplishments in the sport.
“That really holds a special place in my heart,” he said, adding it was not just the medal, but “a great bunch of guys.”
The experience also taught about how rare medals might be. In 2012 the team was expecting greater success ahead, but Madell noted they have not had a podium finish in the Paralympics since.
Madell did go on to win multiple Parapan American and world championship medals, including silver at the 2014 world championships, where he was named most valuable player of the tournament.
While Madell is now away from the game, beyond some recreational play for the “health benefits” of being active, he doesn’t totally rule out being drawn back into the sport at some point. For example when asked if he might one day pick up a clipboard and coach he replied “I won’t say that’s totally out of the question.”
But for now Madell said he is eager to just have “a regular pay cheque” and a few less airplane miles, with a regular job.
Though his retirement marks the end of an era for the national team, Madell’s contributions to the sport will be felt for years to come.
“On behalf of Wheelchair Rugby Canada, I want to express our deepest gratitude to Zak Madell,” said Paul Hunter, CEO of Wheelchair Rugby Canada in the site’s article. “Zak is truly one of the greatest to ever play our sport. For more than 13 years, he has represented Team Canada with pride, integrity and excellence. His impact has been felt both on and off the court — through his skill, leadership and commitment to the game. We thank him not only for his contributions to the national team program, but also for the lasting impression he has made on the wider community.”
